0489 915 636: Scam Alert - Hi Dad Scam Uncovered

• Scam

Have you received a call from 0489 915 636? This number is linked to a "Hi Dad" scam. Learn how to identify and handle these suspicious calls effectively.

The phone number 0489 915 636 / 0489915636 has recently raised alarm bells among Australian mobile users, primarily classified as part of a disturbing trend known as the "Hi Dad" scam. This scam preys particularly on parents, with the caller impersonating their child to create a sense of urgency and financial panic.

According to reports, this number contacted users claiming that their child had lost their phone and was in a tight spot, allegedly accruing a significant debt of $1950 in bills. In such scenarios, the scammer often avoids providing any solid proof during the conversation, shifting the responsibility to the trusting parent to solve the supposed crisis.

Victims reported that when they queried the situation further, the conversation abruptly ended, suggesting dubious intent from the caller. Such tactics emphasise the urgency without a clear solution, convincing parents to act rashly and send money to resolve what is, in fact, a scam.

To protect yourself from calls from numbers like 0489 915 636 / 0489915636, consider the following strategies:

• Verify the Caller: If you receive a suspicious call, do not engage immediately. Instead, hang up and contact your child through a known number to confirm their wellbeing.
• Stay Calm: Scammers rely on creating a sense of urgency. Take a moment to assess the situation before taking any action.
• Report the Call: If you believe the call is a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities, such as Scamwatch or your telco.
• Utilise Reverseau: To uncover who called you, consider using Reverse Phone Lookup Australia tools to gather information on unknown numbers before responding.

This incident serves as a crucial reminder about the tactics employed by scammers. Always maintain a level of skepticism when faced with unfamiliar calls, especially those invoking emotional responses. For anyone targeted by this number, sharing your experience can help raise awareness and protect others from falling victim to similar scams.